Writing this blog feels like keeping a journal—one that documents my journey into aromatherapy and my growth as a skincare formulator.
My story began in 2015, when I developed necrotising fasciitis, a serious flesh-eating bacterial infection, around my fingertips. The infection began affecting other fingers, and because of how quickly it could spread, I was faced with the frightening possibility of surgery and potentially losing two of my fingertips.
As a musician, the thought of losing part of my fingers was devastating. That experience changed the way I viewed my health and inspired me to learn more about ingredients, personal care and the natural world. While necrotising fasciitis is a medical emergency that requires professional treatment, this difficult chapter became the starting point of my personal journey into aromatherapy and skincare formulation.
I began with something simple: melt-and-pour soap. I would add essential oils to a ready-made soap base, experimenting with different scents and combinations. Soon, I wanted to understand more. That curiosity led me to cold-process soapmaking, where I learnt how to create soap from scratch.
From there, I fell deeper and deeper into the fascinating world of skincare.
I wanted to understand why ingredients behaved differently, how textures were created and what made a formulation safe, stable and effective. Whenever I travelled to another country, I searched for books about essential oils, cosmetic ingredients and skincare formulation. If you visited my home today, you would see shelves filled with the books I have collected throughout the years.
However, reading and experimenting were no longer enough for me. I wanted proper scientific knowledge and professional guidance.
In 2023, I decided to pursue a Diploma in Personal Care Formulation. Through my studies, I received clearer guidance from qualified skincare chemists and developed a deeper understanding of cosmetic ingredients, texture, rheology, scent, product stability and performance. I also learnt how to create, evaluate and test new formulations more systematically.
What began as a frightening experience eventually awakened a lasting curiosity in me. Aromatherapy introduced me to the beauty of scent, while skincare science taught me the importance of evidence, safety and precision.
Today, I am still learning, experimenting and growing. This blog is where I will share that continuing journey—the lessons I have learnt, the mistakes I have made and the knowledge that has shaped me into the aromatherapist and skincare formulator I am today.
I hope that through this article, you will gain a deeper understanding of the heart, vision and journey behind RAW-éR—and the founder who brought the brand to life.
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